Especially the Shadows

***Disclaimer: I got this idea from Pinterest, an exercise where you write a 20 word sentence, then a 19 word sentence, and so on, ending the story with one word.***

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I can’t remember where I heard it, but someone said once that self acceptance requires loving yourself, especially the shadows. 

It was a poetic way of saying it, and it made me think of all the times I’ve struggled. 

All the periods of doubt and self loathing I’ve gone through, all the times I deemed myself unworthy.

It’s easy to discard that part of us, the one who can’t navigate the blackness, or won’t. 

Whether we declare it incapable or ignore it, it’s still there waiting to be acknowledged, loved.

Hoping you will see its worth, and one day give it the tenderness it deserves.

A part of you that is just as precious, a vital part of self.

Just as meaningful and in need of complete acceptance as the brighter side. 

It is hard work to be sure, but it’s the best work. 

To learn to forgive ourselves, to choose patience, love, and grace.

No one else can give you that understanding or fulfillment. 

It’s not something you’ll find out in the world. 

Or in relationships, in empty and meaningless deeds. 

Healing starts when we look within ourselves. 

When we embrace our darkest parts. 

As part of the whole. 

The whole authentic self. 

Light and shadow. 

Good, bad. 

Wholeheartedly. 

THE END